Holsters

This is a review I should have done a while ago as I've been using ALS (Automatic Locking System) holsters for a while now. Safariland didn't actually send me anything so I didn't have the usual feeling of obligation to get something up in a timely manner, however I tend to always think better late than never. In summary when it comes to a full on combat / duty style holster, I think the ALS series is the best thing out there.

Back in the day I first learned of Griffon Industries for their photo and calendar projects, turns out they are like me and dabble in making gear as well. They happen to make some pretty fancy kydex based kit and I got to try out a few sample pieces.

There is a lot of decent kydex out there so always nice to see a company keeping things fresh with new ideas like Pitbull Tactical. Their main product has been the Bloodline holster line in which the latest generation has some pretty sweet features. The general size and shape of the Bloodline is about what most would expect a modern kydex holster to be, however the hole placement and clips hardware offerings allow for not only height adjustment, but cant (angle) adjustment, and the ability to convert back and forth from OWB and IWB setups. (OWB = Outside the Waist Band and IWB = Inside the Waist Band)

Since I've been on somewhat of a concealment holster spree I wanted to make sure and show off the Raven Concealment VanGuard 2 Holster as it offers a very unique setup. Perhaps a bit of old news as they have been around since last shotshow, but better late than never. Based on the original VanGuard design, the VanGuard 2 isn't what most expect out of a holster and is closer to an enhanced trigger guard in design. The core differences being that the original was kydex while latest is injection molded and sports a new belt strap option. Both versions support lanyard attachments with the intent of causing the VanGuard to pop off while drawing the pistol out.

Deep Conceal sent me one of their bread and butter holster rigs to check out so I've been giving it a good look-see. Offhand I have the ULTRA model which is for 4"-7" overall length pistols while the MAX version is for 6.5"-9". The general concept of the holster is to be a low profile armpit zone holster. Now the armpit zone does offer great concealment, but for one to actual retrieve the pistol it needs to be a cross draw setup. I'll admit cross draw isn't my personal fave, however it does come with unique pros and cons. While not as easy to access as a belt holster while standing, a cross draw setup tends to be easier to manipulate while sitting and has less printing concerns while moving about such as leaning over. Inherent to a cross draw setup is the need to give extra care while drawing to not flag one's self as much as possible. Just whipping it out is the easy way, however with just a dash more effort one can avoid pointing the muzzle at those ever so useful body parts. While I'm making it easy to see the holster in most of my pictures, keep in mind the rig is made to be covered by a shirt or jacket so don't get too distracted by the torso straps.

I had an opportunity to try something a little different here, some classic style leather for a modern day concealed carry setup. The man behind Rafter-L goes by the name of Erik Little who has quite the resume. Not only has he been rocking all types of leather making for quite some time, he also has extensive military and law enforcement experience. <ABOUT>

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Deep Conceal Ultra HolsterTuesday, 18 September 2012 Deep Conceal sent me one of their bread and butter holster rigs to check out so I've been giving it a good look-see. Offhand I have the ULTRA model... Read More...